Israel denies reports of a ceasefire in south Gaza

Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu has denied reports of a ceasefire to allow "foreigners out" of south Gaza and "humanitarian aid in".

US media had reported that Egypt could reopen the Rafah crossing for several hours - but it is currently closed.

Thousands of people are gathering there in the hope of leaving Gaza ahead of an expected Israeli ground offensive.

More than 1,400 people in Israel were killed in Hamas attacks just over a week ago. Nearly 2,700 people in Gaza have been killed in Israel's retaliatory bombardment.